Margaret Ann Pettit Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Margaret Ann Pettit (Ruiz) May 3,1938 - April 18,2018 Margaret was born to Ignacio and Mary Jessica Ruiz in Santa Barbara, CA, where she lived her entire life bringing joy to all who loved and cherished her. She attended Guadalupe Catholic Elementary School and graduated from Santa Barbara Catholic High (Bishop Diego), and attended Santa Barbara City College. She loved her first job at General Telephone, working and having fun at the same time. She went on two work as as interpreter for the Santa Barbara Superior Court. Margaret also was a receptionist at Santa Barbara General Research Company where she continued making friends while loving her work. After being the BEST stay-at-home mother to her children, Margaret earned her Real Estate License in 1985. She loved this new adventure and in her first year was part of a coveted group of agents to sell $1,000,000 in one year. Margaret was so proud to make The Million Dollar Club! Margaret volunteered with Planned Parenthood and Santa Barbara Sister Cities. Volunteering with Old Spanish Days was her passion and she loved dressing up in her beautiful Fiesta dresses, and she especially enjoyed participating in the rodeo, with her gentleman cowboy Armand by her side! Margaret is predeceased by her parents, Ignacio and Mary Jessica Ruiz and her brother, Gilbert Ruiz. She is survived by her three children, Melissa Peter (Rick), Matthew Pettit, Elizabeth Palme (Chris), her grandchildren- Bijan Palme, Delaney Peter, and Leif Palme, her brother Anthony Ruiz (Janet) and her former husband, Kenneth Pettit. Margaret is also survived by many nieces and nephews, cousins, extended family and friends. Margaret's will to engage with the world prevailed until her final days; she rebuffed the hindrances of arthritis in pursuit of time well spent in laughter and conversation. Her cheerfulness and inspiring optimism will be remembered by all who loved her. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Arthritis Foundation of Santa Barbara. A Rosary for Margaret will take place on Wednesday, May 2nd, at 7pm. at the Welch-Ryce-Haider Santa Barbara Chapel. Mass will be held Thursday, May 3rd, at 10am at the Old Mission Santa Barbara. Interment to follow at Calvary Cemetery.

Margaret Ann Pettit

May 3, 1938 - April 18, 2018